The company has settled the discussion
Heinz has finally settled an age old debate over whether you should store your tomato ketchup in the fridge or in the cupboard.
It is a debate that has caused division in households up and down the country as families argue whilst putting the shopping away where it should live.
While those who store it in the fridge argue that it says on the bottle to ‘keep refrigerated’, cupboard supporters will argue that restaurants keep the condiment at room temperature and that it contains high levels of preservatives anyway meaning it is unlikely to spoil.
Now, those who make the sauce – Heinz- have now attempted to put an end to the argument.
It’s bad news for those who like to store it in the cupboard as the manufacturer was firmly in favour of keeping it in the fridge.
Olivia Lennon, a Heinz representative told The Mirror: “There was only ever one correct answer, and we’re happy to share with Heinz Tomato Ketchup lovers that our ketchup has to be in the fridge.”
Acknowledging that a large percentage of the nation likes their ketchup slightly on the milder side, she added: “Although we’re aware many Heinz Tomato Ketchup fans have been storing their ketchup in the cupboard, we do recommend refrigeration after opening.
“This is the best way to maintain the delicious tangy taste of our Heinz Tomato Ketchup that you know and love.”
It’s not the first time they’ve spoken out in favour of refrigerating the product. In 2023 they wrote on X: “FYI: Ketchup. goes. in. the. fridge!!!”
However, a doctor has previously told Which? that ketchup is ok to be stored in a cupboard.
Dietician Dr Sarah Schenker said: “Sometimes people keep ketchup in the fridge, simply because they prefer a chilled taste, but otherwise it doesn’t need to be refrigerated.”
She also gave her opinion on other condiments. Brown sauce can go in the cupboard since ‘it’s vinegar-based, so keeping it in the fridge isn’t necessary’.
Mustard too doesn’t need to go in the fridge, although keeping it in the fridge may help to preserve its kick for longer. However mayonnaise and salad cream need to be kept in the fridge.
